Merle J. Samson

July 31, 1922 – July 10, 2011

Merle Samson passed away July 10, 2011 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center, he was 88.

Merle was born on July 31, 1922 in Moniteau County, Missouri from the union of Francis Merle and Gladys (Bowen) Samson. He spent his childhood in the Maryville, MO and graduated high school there.

After working long hard days in the CC Camps of Gallerton, MO, Merle competed in boxing matches in the evening. He won five matches in the first round which was one of his most proud accomplishments. He went on to box in the military as well, while serving in WWII. He would later pass on his knowledge of boxing to his sons. He also challenged much younger opponents into defeat with his quick Ping-Pong/bowling action until the very last years of his life.

Merle heard the call to action and joined the United States Army in 1942 and served in the New Guinea Campaign. He was honorably discharged in 1944 with the rank of Sergeant.

Merle was known to play a mean rhythm guitar in the family band which kept everyone tapping their toes to the country/western beat. Family members can recall hearing Merle practicing in the bedroom late into the night.

Being a painter/decorator he tried his hand at portrait and landscapes which astounded everyone. These surprisingly beautiful child portraits and landscapes will be a freeze-frame of family life as we knew it for years to come. They will be cherished forever. His proudest moments were with his children’s accomplishments.

Merle loved fishing and boating with the family and having political debates with anyone that would listen. He had a very biased way of seeing his side but kept you laughing hysterically when you disagreed with him.

We will miss the strong, silent side of this brave-heart who endured so much pain silently without complaint. We love you..

Merle leaves behind three sons; Fred Samson of Grand Junction, CO, Harry (Raelene) Samson of Fruita, CO, Steve (Marge) Samson of Whitewater, CO, a step-son; Steven “Rusty” Speck of Pueblo, CO, a daughter; Peggy (Rob) Sharpe of Grand Junction, three brothers; Hartford Samson of Maryville, MO, Jack Samson of Bremerton, WA, Claude Samson of Maryville, MO, two sisters; Zela Hall of Fairbanks, AK, Shirley Reynolds of Maryville, MO, ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Betty and son Don.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 PM, Friday, July 15, 2011 at the Orchard Mesa Cemetery.